In our review of this coastal gem, we found a lot to love. Perched right on the beach in Toba, this hotel is a stone’s throw from the train station and close to must-see spots like the Pearl Island and aquarium.
You can soak in natural hot springs, feast on a varied Japanese spread, and snooze in rooms that might give you a front-row seat to ocean views.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. The decor in some areas feels a bit dated, and the buffet, while diverse, might not wow food critics.
Also, if you’re hoping for a truly authentic ryokan experience, this larger hotel might feel a tad commercialized.
That said, this place is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. Families will appreciate the easy access to attractions, while couples can enjoy romantic ocean vistas.
If you’re looking for a comfortable base to explore Toba without breaking the bank, this hotel fits the bill nicely.
Key Points
- Beachfront hotel located in Toba, Mie, Japan, providing easy access to local attractions like Mikimoto Pearl Island and Toba Aquarium.
- Offers a variety of accommodations, including Japanese-style suites and modern suites, with essential amenities and private bathrooms.
- Features an on-site restaurant serving a wide selection of Japanese cuisine, with buffet-style dinners and breakfasts available.
- Boasts open-air hot spring baths with stunning ocean views, offering a rejuvenating onsen experience for guests.
- Received an overall rating of 7.8/10 from 170 guest reviews, with high praise for the romantic location, spacious rooms, and helpful staff.
Location and Accessibility
Toba Grand Hotel boasts a prime beachfront location in the scenic town of Toba, Mie, Japan.
Conveniently situated just a 5-minute drive from the JR/Kintetsu Toba Train Station, the hotel offers free shuttle service to help guests easily reach the property.
It’s also just 1.6 km from Mikimoto Pearl Island and 1.7 km from the renowned Toba Aquarium, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s top attractions.
With Chubu Airport located 41 km away, the hotel provides a tranquil seaside retreat while still maintaining easy access to regional transportation hubs.
Room Types and Amenities
The hotel features a variety of accommodation options, catering to different guest preferences. Guests can choose from Japanese-Style Suites or Modern Suites, with the option of booking a half-board package.
All rooms come equipped with essential amenities, including flat-screen TVs, fridges, and electric kettles. Private bathrooms are provided, stocked with free toiletries.
Beyond the guest rooms, the hotel has notable facilities such as open-air hot spring baths, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak while taking in the scenic ocean views.
Plus, the hotel offers a lobby lounge and a shop selling local items, providing guests with a well-rounded on-site experience.
Dining and Culinary Offerings
At the Toba Grand Hotel, guests can indulge in a variety of culinary offerings. The hotel’s dining room serves a buffet-style dinner, providing guests with a wide selection of Japanese cuisine in a family-friendly and traditional setting.
For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, the hotel offers the option of room or banquet hall dining at an additional charge. Breakfast is also served as a buffet, ensuring guests start their day with a hearty meal.
The hotel’s restaurant showcases:
- Diverse Japanese dishes
- Freshly prepared local ingredients
- Picturesque ocean views
Onsen and Relaxation Facilities
One of the highlights of staying at the Toba Grand Hotel is its open-air hot spring baths, which offer guests a rejuvenating onsen experience.
The hotel’s natural hot springs are situated outdoors, providing breathtaking views of the ocean. Guests can unwind in the soothing, mineral-rich waters while taking in the scenic surroundings.
Along With the open-air baths, the hotel features a lobby lounge with panoramic sea vistas, providing a serene space for guests to relax.
The hotel also operates a shop where visitors can purchase local crafts and souvenirs, adding to the overall tranquil and immersive atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Along With its relaxing onsen experience, Toba Grand Hotel provides easy access to a variety of local attractions and activities.
Just a short distance away, guests can explore:
- Mikimoto Pearl Island, known for its pearl cultivation and museum showcasing the history of this iconic Japanese industry
- Toba Aquarium, home to an impressive collection of marine life including seals, dolphins, and the rare giant salamander
- Toba Fishing Port, offering opportunities to try local seafood delicacies and participate in fishing excursions
With the hotel’s convenient location and shuttle service, visitors can seamlessly incorporate these diverse sights and experiences into their stay, enhancing their overall visit to the Toba region.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Toba Grand Hotel has earned a respectable 7.8/10 rating based on 170 guest reviews. Couples particularly favor the hotel’s romantic location, rating it 8.9 for romantic trips. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms, beautiful ocean views, and helpful staff. The quality of food, variety in the buffet, and the onsen experience receive high praise. The following table highlights the key aspects of the guest experience:
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Room Quality | 8.2 |
| Amenities | 7.9 |
| Dining | 8.4 |
| Staff Service | 8.0 |
| Value for Money | 7.6 |
Policies and Check-in/Check-out
Check-in at Toba Grand Hotel is from 15:00 to 18:30, with guests required to check out by 11:00.
Children of any age are welcome, but those 6 and older are charged as adults. Pets aren’t allowed in the hotel.
To ensure a safe and comfortable stay, the hotel enforces additional COVID-19 measures, including restrictions for guests with visible tattoos in public bathing areas.
These policies aim to provide a pleasant experience for all guests while maintaining a high standard of safety and cleanliness.
- Children 6 and older charged as adults
- Pets not allowed
- COVID-19 safety measures in place, including tattooing restrictions
Safety and COVID-19 Measures
Amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Toba Grand Hotel has implemented additional safety measures to safeguard the wellbeing of its guests.
The hotel enforces restrictions for guests with visible tattoos in public bathing areas, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. On top of that, the hotel follows strict cleaning and disinfection protocols, with frequent sanitization of high-touch surfaces.
Guests are also required to wear masks in common areas. While these measures may inconvenience some, they demonstrate the hotel’s commitment to providing a safe and responsible environment during these challenging times.
Toba Grand Hotel prioritizes the health and safety of its patrons, ensuring a worry-free stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Hotel’s Pet Policy?
Pets are not allowed at the hotel. According to the hotel’s policies, guests are not permitted to bring any animals onto the premises.
Are There Any Special Services for Guests With Disabilities?
The hotel offers handicap-accessible rooms and facilities, with staff available to assist guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-friendly access is provided throughout the property, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive stay for all visitors.
Does the Hotel Offer Wedding or Honeymoon Packages?
The hotel offers special wedding and honeymoon packages, providing romantic accommodations, private dining, and access to on-site amenities like hot spring baths to create a memorable celebration for newlyweds.
Can I Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request early check-in or late check-out subject to availability, which may incur an additional fee. The hotel’s standard check-in time is 3pm and check-out time is 11am.
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?
The hotel doesn’t have a dedicated fitness center or gym on-site. However, guests can enjoy the outdoor hot spring baths and explore the surrounding area for recreational activities during their stay.
The Sum Up
I’ve gotta say, this gem of a hotel really knocked my socks off. The Toba Grand is everything you’d want in a Japanese coastal getaway – jaw-dropping ocean views, steamy onsen baths that’ll melt your cares away, and food that’ll have you dreaming of Japan long after you’ve left.
But what really sets this place apart is how it manages to be both luxurious and accessible. It’s the kind of spot where you can kick back in style without breaking the bank. And let me tell you, after a long day of exploring the enchanting Toba region, there’s nothing better than coming back to this oasis of comfort.
Now, if you’re itching to experience this slice of paradise for yourself (and trust me, you should be), you’re in luck. Just hit that button below to book through Booking.com. It’s my go-to for reservations – always free to use and usually offers some of the best deals around. Happy travels!